Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky announced on May 30 that Ukraine has received a new IRIS-T launch system from Germany. This update was shared via his Telegram account on May 31.
“Yesterday we received a new IRIS-T launch system. We thank Germany for its ongoing contribution to the protection of our people. Thousands of lives have been saved thanks to such strong support. However, we also need missiles for our air defense systems to have sufficient capabilities to repel Russian attacks,” the president stated.
He further noted that significant agreements were reached with Sweden this week regarding a new aid package that includes strengthening Ukraine’s aviation capabilities with Gripen fighter jets.
Zelensky also highlighted new contributions received this year under the PURL program, emphasizing the importance of continuing this initiative. He expressed reliance on support from the United States and European partners, stating, “anti-ballistic defense is one of Ukraine’s key priorities.”
“A strong air defense can provide greater protection for our people and deprive Russia of its last advantage. I thank all partners who help and are ready to respond effectively to Moscow’s attempts to expand and escalate its war. It is crucial to understand that choosing war will have consequences. I am grateful to everyone who stands with Ukraine,” Zelensky added.
Additionally, the president reported that this week Russian forces launched over 2,300 strike drones, nearly 1,560 guided aviation bombs, and 108 missiles of various types against Ukraine.
“All these strikes are aimed at ordinary civilian infrastructure—residential buildings, energy facilities. Every day we work to enhance protection against Russian terror,” he remarked.
Overview of the PURL Program
On July 14, 2025, the United States and NATO established the Prioritized Ukraine Requirements List (PURL), which facilitates the purchase of American weapons for Ukraine funded by European countries. According to NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte, under this agreement, Kyiv may receive a substantial number of air defense systems, missiles, and ammunition.
Denmark has allocated approximately 580 million Danish kroner to the PURL initiative, Sweden has committed 275 million dollars, and Norway has contributed around 135 million dollars.
Previously, the Netherlands financed the first aid package under the PURL program with 500 million euros. Germany has also joined the initiative.
On September 18, a NATO representative informed the public that the first military equipment under the agreement between the U.S. and NATO as part of the PURL program had arrived in Ukraine, with more supplies expected soon.
After a meeting with NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte on September 24, Zelensky noted that within two months of the PURL program’s establishment, its funding had reached 2.1 billion dollars. Rutte emphasized the importance of increasing contributions and the number of participating countries in the initiative.
On December 3, NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte announced that Alliance countries and partners had already committed over 4 billion dollars in aid to Ukraine through the PURL mechanism.
Ukraine's acquisition of a new IRIS-T launch system from Germany marks a significant step in bolstering its air defense capabilities amid ongoing Russian aggression. President Zelensky's remarks highlight the urgent need for additional military support as the conflict escalates.